Indulge in the rich flavors of Hazelnut & Dark Chocolate Cheesecake Bars—a delightful dessert that combines creamy cheesecake with the crunch of hazelnuts and the deep taste of dark chocolate. These bars are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth on any occasion.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• For the crust:

  • 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs

  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

  • ¼ teaspoon salt

  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• For the filling:

  • 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened

  • 1 cup granulated sugar

  • 3 large eggs

  • ½ cup sour cream

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• For the topping:

  • 4 oz dark chocolate

  • 2 tablespoons whole milk

  • ½ cup chopped hazelnuts

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.

2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and salt. Stir in melted butter until the mixture is well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

3. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in sour cream and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

4. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust in the baking dish.

5. In a small saucepan, melt the dark chocolate and milk together over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cheesecake filling. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the chocolate into the filling, creating a marbled effect.

6. Sprinkle the chopped hazelnuts evenly over the top of the cheesecake.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly browned.

8. Remove from the oven and let cool at room temperature for 1 hour.

9. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or overnight, to allow the cheesecake to set completely.

10. Once chilled, cut into bars and serve.

Nutritional Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 490 kcal

• Total Fat: 32g

• Saturated Fat: 15g

• Cholesterol: 90mg

• Sodium: 150mg

• Total Carbohydrates: 44g

• Dietary Fiber: 2g

• Sugars: 35g

• Protein: 6g

A Brief History of Cheesecake

Cheesecake is one of the oldest desserts known to mankind, with origins dating back to ancient Greece. The earliest versions of cheesecake were simple, made from cheese, honey, and fruit. These early recipes were used as offerings to the gods, which speaks to their importance in ancient cultures. Over time, cheesecake evolved, and during the Roman Empire, it became a popular dish enjoyed by the wealthy.

As the centuries passed, cheesecake recipes spread throughout Europe, each region adding its own twist to the classic dessert. The modern version of cheesecake we know today—made with cream cheese—originated in the United States in the early 20th century. Over the years, it has become a beloved dessert, with various flavors and toppings. Cheesecake’s versatility is part of what makes it such a popular choice for both home bakers and professional chefs alike.

Why Hazelnut and Dark Chocolate Work So Well Together

Hazelnuts and dark chocolate are a match made in dessert heaven. The richness and slightly bitter taste of dark chocolate beautifully complement the buttery, nutty flavor of hazelnuts. This combination is often seen in many gourmet desserts and candies, such as Ferrero Rocher, which is a popular hazelnut chocolate treat.

Hazelnuts have a natural sweetness and a deep flavor that pairs perfectly with dark chocolate’s more complex and intense taste. The texture of hazelnuts adds a delightful crunch, which contrasts wonderfully with the creamy smoothness of the cheesecake filling. When combined in a dessert like cheesecake bars, the two ingredients elevate each other, creating a satisfying flavor profile that appeals to all the senses.

The Importance of Texture in Desserts

In any great dessert, texture plays a critical role in the overall experience. The contrast between textures is what often makes a dessert memorable. Cheesecake is typically known for its creamy, smooth filling, which contrasts with the crispness of a graham cracker crust. By adding hazelnuts on top of the cheesecake bars, you introduce a crunchy element that balances out the richness of the creamy filling.

Moreover, the drizzle of dark chocolate adds both flavor and an extra layer of texture. As the chocolate cools and sets on the bars, it forms a thin, crackly layer that enhances the eating experience. Each bite offers a combination of smoothness, crunch, and a burst of deep chocolate flavor, which is what makes these Hazelnut Dark Chocolate Cheesecake Bars so irresistible.

Benefits of Adding Hazelnuts to Your Diet

Beyond their delicious taste, hazelnuts are packed with nutritional benefits. These nuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, including monounsaturated fats, which are known to support heart health. They also provide a good amount of protein, fiber, and vitamins, including vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from oxidative damage.

Incorporating nuts like hazelnuts into your diet has been shown to improve cholesterol levels, reduce the risk of heart disease, and promote overall health. They are also a good source of minerals like magnesium, calcium, and potassium, which support bone health and muscle function. So, not only do these Hazelnut Dark Chocolate Cheesecake Bars taste great, but they also offer some health benefits.

Why Cheesecake Bars are a Great Choice for Any Event

When it comes to serving desserts at events, cheesecake bars are an excellent option. Unlike traditional cheesecake, which requires careful slicing and serving, cheesecake bars are already pre-cut into manageable pieces. This makes them ideal for parties, potlucks, and other social gatherings where guests want to grab a quick treat without worrying about messy slices.

Another advantage of cheesecake bars is that they are portable. You can easily pack them up and take them to a picnic or a friend’s house, making them a convenient option for dessert on the go. The bars are also easy to store, and they keep well in the refrigerator, allowing you to prepare them in advance for a hassle-free dessert.

Tips for Perfecting Your Hazelnut Dark Chocolate Cheesecake Bars

While this recipe is simple to follow, there are a few tips you can use to ensure that your cheesecake bars turn out perfectly every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: It’s important to use cream cheese and eggs at room temperature for a smooth and lump-free filling. Cold ingredients can cause the filling to become grainy and hard to mix.

• Don’t Overmix the Filling: When preparing the filling, mix the ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can introduce excess air into the batter, which can cause cracks in the cheesecake during baking.

• Let the Bars Cool Slowly: After baking, allow the cheesecake to cool at room temperature before refrigerating it. This helps prevent cracking and ensures the bars set properly.

• Chill Overnight: For the best texture and flavor, chill the cheesecake bars in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and the texture to firm up.

How to Serve Hazelnut Dark Chocolate Cheesecake Bars

These cheesecake bars are perfect for a variety of occasions. They can be served as a sweet ending to a family dinner or as a centerpiece at a holiday gathering. If you’re looking to impress guests at a party, these bars can be dressed up with additional toppings like whipped cream, more chopped hazelnuts, or a dusting of cocoa powder.

For a more indulgent treat, you can serve the bars with a side of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of raspberry sauce. The combination of the rich chocolate and the freshness of the fruit creates a balanced flavor profile that is sure to please your guests.

Conclusion

Hazelnut Dark Chocolate Cheesecake Bars are a decadent and delicious dessert that is perfect for any occasion. The smooth, creamy cheesecake filling, paired with the crunchy hazelnuts and rich dark chocolate, creates a mouthwatering experience that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Not only do these bars taste amazing, but they are also easy to make, and their portability makes them a great option for parties and gatherings.